2009 was an interesting one. It was not more than seven days old before two cardiac surgeons were cutting a hole in the membrane surrounding my heart. And nineteen days before the year’s end saw a team of neurosurgeons disassembling a portion of my spine to partially remove a tumor that was causing paralysis by compressing my spinal cord. And in between was lots of experimental chemotherapy, mainlined straight to my heart. How was your year?
During this past year I learned a lot about human nature and character. It seems that some people rise to the occasion, no matter how difficult the challenge or long the odds, while others implode at the first indication that the wind is no longer at their back. I’m grateful that most of the people in my life are in the former category rather than the latter.
Good news: I’m regaining sensation in my torso and legs – walking is improving though I still need assistance.
Bad news: I’m regaining sensation in my torso and legs – stuff sometimes hurts like a sonofabitch.
I don’t know what 2010 holds in store for me. None of us do. But if it’s a tussle it wants, a tussle it shall have.
6 comments:
A VERY Happy New Year to you and Cecily, Paul! You are CERTAINLY one of the people you described that continue to rise head on against every challenge dealt them. You continually amaze me!! Love, Jan
Great post. However, I think you made one error. If there is one thing I have learned in law school it is the importance of precedent. If precedent is worth anything 2010 should result in you kicking the cancers tail!! Therefore I go on record with my objection to your utilization of the word "tussle".
Your oldest son.
It's amazing what you have been through during the life of this blog. You and Cec have been our fearless leaders-you are both a positive and calming influence for the rest of us as we navigate this chaos together. You have many supporters and admirers as you begin 2010!!! XOXO, Karen
Your friend of your BIG sister said...
May this second decade of the second millennium bring continued good fortune for ya!
Love, Cindy
Thank you, Paul, for sharing your journey with the rest of us. You remain in our prayers. May 2010 be full of new blessings and good surprises!
Hi Paul,
Hmm...now how can I be anonymous and let you know who this is...well this is Patty, as in Tom and Patty who live in SB and are friends with Brad and Kim. Does that work? Last night I had a drink with Kim and she mentioned your latest may I say 'life adventure.' We spoke of you, your blog and your passion for life...in general we spoke of the very definition of courage. Kim sent me your blog link today and I must admit with guilt that I have delayed most of my work today to catch up with everyone else--I knew the basics of your illness, but not the details. I feel so graced to have meet you and now your most gorgeous Cecily...and I wish I could help...in some way...as I want you to know that your blog has made a real difference in my attitude toward a question that I've thrown out to the universe. So thank you for taking the time to give us all something so lovely...and real. I look forward to seeing you soon...walking. Until then, please feel free to call Kim or Brad to get our number...so we can offer something back to you. Smiles, sunshine and loads of hope, Patty
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